CyberPanel is a Linux control panel for Ubuntu and Enterprise-based Linux operating systems (OSs). It is built on the LiteSpeed web server to maximize performance. Whether CyberPanel is free depends on whether you want to use the free OpenLiteSpeed versus LiteSpeed Enterprise web server with premium tiers and the ability to use more domains, RAM, and PHP workers.
It’s most common to install CyberPanel on a base OS server from the command-line interface (CLI). However, some web hosting providers provide a lineup of managed CyberPanel hosting options. There are advantages and disadvantages to both pathways. Below we’ll discuss both.
What is CyberPanel Hosting?
CyberPanel VPS hosting is basically Linux virtual server hosting with CyberPanel preconfigured and hosting reseller capabilities. CyberPanel shared hosting would be a single restricted CyberPanel account. Hosting providers will oftentimes implement additional features to connect customers with software they’ve developed in-house. Managed CyberPanel server plans may also include free technical support, something uncommon with unmanaged VPS plans.
Unmanaged Linux VPS Hosting
Unmanaged VPS hosting, also known as Cloud Server Hosting, is a bare Linux installation without a browser-based user interface provided. This allows for a greater degree of customization. If you want to do anything on that server, you’ll need to:
- Setup Secure Shell (SSH)
- Download a desktop app for file transfer protocol (FTP)
- Or install a server control panel (likely using SSH or FTP)
While cheaper than managed VPS hosting, they usually don’t come with free technical support. You have to make the choice for which Linux distribution suits your needs best. You’ll have to research OS prerequisites for web applications you plan to install. Sales agents can help you if you have a list of software.
SSH access is generally required since there’s no other way to run interactive terminal scripts. Even unmanaged VPS customers can request technical assistance with this because the steps for setting up SSH are similar between all OSs.
But you have to log into SSH to download and execute the CyberPanel installation script. While that might seem intimidating for users unfamiliar with the command prompt, it only requires pasting a code block and patiently typing “Y,” “N,” or a number.
InMotion Hosting does not offer managed CyberPanel hosting at this time. We recommend users interested in CyberPanel to install it manually on one of our cloud server or bare metal dedicated server plans.
Is CyberPanel Hosting Right for You?
Now that we’ve covered the differences between a managed CyberPanel server and an unmanaged server with CyberPanel manually installed, here are some important things to consider before making a decision.
Pros of CyberPanel Hosting
CyberPanel is installed for you. There’s a file manager within the dashboard where you can move and edit files. Some hosting providers might add their own terminal emulator for any scripts you need to run (a terminal emulator isn’t included by default).
It will likely have fewer bugs. CyberPanel Free Forever isn’t highly stable as many features do not work properly. A managed hosting provider will likely deploy internal updates to the source code to address them.
You can request free technical support from the hosting and ensure you’re making the most out of CyberPanel features.
Many web hosting companies provide CyberPanel Enterprise, the premium version with LiteSpeed Enterprise and additional website speed optimization. Ask the hosting provider which version they offer and on which Linux OS. It may affect the monthly fee.
You’re only paying for what you want. The cost of a hosting plan usually depends on how much control, SSD space usage, and RAM you’re allotted.
Cons of CyberPanel Hosting
You can’t use another control panel or OS. You’ll only be able to install software supported by CyberPanel and your current Linux distribution.
Internally developed features cannot be migrated to another provider. So if you switch hosting companies, you may need to figure out other ways to accomplish those tasks.
Most CyberPanel hosting providers are not well known. Although, that doesn’t mean they don’t have superb security, customer service, and uptime.
Highly technical users benefit more from a lower price for an unmanaged VPS. If you don’t need a graphical interface, or are capable of installing your preferred one, why limit yourself?
Continue to learn more about how to manage your CyberPanel VPS.
No matter if you're a developer, system administrator, or simply a fan of SSH and command line, InMotion's Cloud Hosting plans provide a fast, scalable environment that is budget-friendly.
